Brain Injury to Brain Upgrade | Natalie Forstbauer | TEDxChilliwack

[@Hararetarumaki]

I so needed to hear this right now. My father is in a coma it has a brain injury. Praying he will wake up and be a miracle story like you.

[@ToddDouglasFox]

I had a birth trauma that negatively impacted my brain. Fast forward to 1985 when I hit the back of my head at work and 2 weeks later I was rear ended. I was finishing college and taking neuropsych classes. Immediately I had off and on moments of being able to read English, being able to write sentences, being able to read a road map and on and on. About 1 year later, I happened upon taking precursors to neurotransmitters, then I began taking other supplements that clear the brain of debris. I began doing things like walking, focusing on talking out loud and my breath, while paying attention to my emotions, moving my hands and then talking to someone to engage them in charitable gifting. This type of multi-tasking began to wire my thoughts and abilities back together. Doctors had already told me I would be senile within 20 years. I am now nearly 40 years post the TBI and I can say that with the many alternative methods I steeped myself in (I took no medications) I did upgrade my actual cognition, not just my life. I still get neurotesting (electrode testing) that shows I have almost no hook ups in the brain that are normal and they don’t know how my brain is transmitting information from section to section because they cannot locate it. Additionally there is still a lot of debris. I did permanently lose something, I don’t think like I did as a kid when I was taught and I rejected linear thought processing. For many years now my upgrade is that I process thoughts with a global brain, I’m able to take a lot of information and put it together in ways that are much more complete and interwoven. I can maintain the big picture I’m telling while giving a great number of details including spontaneously veering off into other thoughts and ideas, much of it novel, and then putting those bits back into the bigger picture that I was getting to from the start. I no longer forget, I no longer have difficulty with reading or understanding or writing, I don’t get lost looking at maps, and the improvements continue to give upgrades. I didn’t know if I would improve at all but over about 3 years I did the bulk of the healing and to this day I find new modalities to explore and improve my cognition. The fact that I didn’t have to remain in the box that many educators put children into in terms of learning was the big upgrade. I clicked on this video because I’ve never heard anyone relate anything like my story. I’m glad that Natalie has found some peace as her upgrade, which is also important but as it turns out it’s not anything like my story. Respond to my comment if you have experienced anything like what I relate above that I have experienced. Cheers 🥂

[@MsNooneinparticular]

Whoo boy did I need to hear this! Currently recovering from a concussion and looking for anything other than the typical doom and gloom narrative. Sounds like your brain injury was more severe yet your attitude is so positive. Thank you.

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

My heart is so full knowing this made a difference for you! I am glad you commented, it helps people find it who need to see it. Know you've got this. Be patient with yourself and meet yourself with loving arms. Big love xx Natalie

[@jessbooth5495]

Likewise! Thank-you so much for sharing your story ☺️

[@asdf52708]

I had a pretty severe brain injury when I was a young child and I'm just now starting to realize that it has affected me more than doctors initially thought. really the only thing I struggle with is an anxiety disorder and other than that I'm pretty successful and happy in life!

[@FreeSpiritPressNews]

Recovering from at least my 10th concussion and TBI now

[@juliahobson5052]

This is such a clear, authentic and informative glimpse into the world of brain injury....the dark, sad, scary, messy moments along with the pathway to hope and well being in the context of deep gratitude for who you have become. .....the huge pivot. So uplifting to witness you, Natalie taking your story out to the world to share with all of us the possibility and empowerment that can come out of such adversity. May your garden continue to blossom in all its beautiful organic life force energy!

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Julia, thank you for seeing the pivot and sharing your take aways with me. May your garden continue to bloom too! Wishing you many rich harvests.

[@leslieambrose8421]

Thank you for bringing visibility to an invisible injury. Baring your soul and inviting us into your journey from injury to upgrade is not simply informational, it's inspirational. Re-defining healing is a gift to all of us.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Leslie Ambrose thank you for your gracious and inspiring feedback!

[@johnmacfarlane6929]

As a professional working in the field I found your sharing of your story humbling and inspirational. I hope it will enable me to help my patients/clients better.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

John, I am deeply moved by your comment. Please reach out if there is anything I can support or help you with. Thank you for the work you do! Much love, Natalie

[@erincarroll1137]

Thank you .. I needed to hear this. Accepting where I am and showing myself compassion when the days of sadness consume my heart for no reason... much needed to hear all of this. ❤️🙏

[@antie111lily7]

I’ll never forget how much healing was involved when I had my concussion. A few years before my concussion I had chemo brain so the concussion was a double whammy and thank GOD with his grace and all the healing modalities that I learned I was able to move forward and my brain healed. It’s a journey and I wish whomever is reading this going through similar experiences please know that you can heal. You need to believe it in order for healing to happen and also I hope you have the right support while going through these difficult times. Life is hard as it is and with the largest organ being affected can cause more trauma to your physical spiritual mental health. Go to support groups if there are any online or through a brain injury organization. Each person will heal on his/her time. God bless you all and sending healing prayers as I write this to each person suffering with any kind of brain impairment 🙏❤️🙏

[@sanyagandhi3627]

And you will heal completely.🌸❤️

[@nishattanzim4774]

You're one of the most strongest person alive I would say. Deep respect.

[@vmctavish]

I love how you said that your brain injury is 'part of' your story. This is such a powerful way to move forward and shine despite the adversity faced. Well done!

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Valerie! I love that you saw and heard that. Made my heart expand ❤️ Thanks for taking the time to watch and share a comment

[@vmctavish]

@@natalieforstbauer61 💖

[@nunukatoney8509]

For my TBI I had to learn how to walk again. Your story makes sense to me that’s what I’m going through. I’m still healing ❤️‍🩹🧠🫀🫁

[@timjohnson1199]

I had to learn to walk again too. I was strapped into a wheelchair for awhile. Decades later I'm still unsteady if I don't concentrate.

[@nunukatoney8509]

@@timjohnson1199 I’m still learning and sometimes I get agitated so far it’s been 1 yr and 8 months since the TBI. I know that when I listen to music 🎶 that really changes my state of mind to the better.

[@phines93]

@@nunukatoney8509 try keto and alpha lipoic acid

[@melodioushaste]

@@phines93 She wasn't asking a question, but of course, you mansplain something at her that doesn't have anything to do with the comment she left.

[@phines93]

@@melodioushaste I know you're bored man I'm sorry, go outside it might help

[@505bluedog]

Grace in the face of adversity - thank you for your grace, your powerful story and being a beacon of light.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Julia! Thank you for your grace and encouragement ❤️

[@ThePowerWithinOnline]

Thank you Natalie for speaking directly to my soul. ❤️ For validating my experience and bravely sharing yours with the world. Your wisdom was exactly what I needed to hear as I deal with another challenge in my healing journey. Thank you for reminding me to choose grace and compassion over fear and giving me hope. - Marisa

[@LaurenAndLife]

Natalie, I love your presence and your grace. You are so authentic in your strength and your weakness and so relatable and inspiring. Your talk was powerful and moving but even more so is your spirit to overcome any challenge!

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you Lauren, I am inspired by your feedback 😊

[@sharonanderson9243]

Natalie, this is such a great window into what a brain injury is like and how you were able to navigate your way through. I loved the idea that true healing is about accepting self as we are no matter what that might be.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

That is part of the deeper truth, isn't it Sharon! Accepting who we are, where we are at...and then noticing and taking the next step into our destiny. Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment on my TEDx talk!

[@dojczevolks]

@@natalieforstbauer61 how long have you been ijn coma

[@gregcleveland6270]

Thanks so much for being vulnerable and sharing this with the world. After a hemoragic brain bleed with our under 30 daughter, we understand everything that you share..

[@natalieforstbauer61]

My heart is with you and your family. I trust and hope your daughter along with your family and friends are finding a way through it all. I’m glad the talk resonated...it was a journey in the making. Thank you for taking the time to comment and share a part of your story. I deeply appreciate it. Many blessings, compassion and grace, Natalie

[@MartaKeller]

Thank you for opening the conversation on this important topic and sharing so vulnerably about your experience. I celebrate you for stepping into the public spotlight to share your powerful message. You were radiant - well done!

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thanks for watching and all the support!

[@janicesmith2836]

Fabulous talk Natalie! Thank you for sharing your entire experience from brain injury to brain upgrade and all the muck you experienced along the way. I love how you now focus on what you can be rather than what you can't. Powerful for anyone, brain injury or not.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you Janice! We can all benefit from sinking into who we are, can’t we! I appreciate your comments and reflections ❤️🦋🙏🏼

[@itsyourmethod]

Thanks for this speech! After some Traumatas i was healing my Body , but the hard work was on the mind. I had Amnesia and had to learn even languages Again that i already knew. Making KZbin Videos helps me to relearn languages i used to know and to help not only my patients but hopefully soon more people who re overweight as a physical therapist and a weight loss coach. Hope this will inspire someone to start whatever they love doing! Cheers from Germany

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you for your reflections and amplifying the power of our mind, perspective and healing. I've had some amnesia and a very difficult time with word finding. Although it is much better now - it was tough! I am grateful you've found making videos to be a powerful tool and resource for you to help yourself and others! Shine on! Love and health xx

[@itsyourmethod]

@@natalieforstbauer61 thank you for sharing this! So good to know, that u re not the only one who is dealing with this ! Sending you Love from Berlin in Quarantine; )

[@ILyon-xu2pt]

This makes me cry as it hits home in a way, had a traumatic brain injury as a child and every day I have memory problems, my brain isn't a sponge but once I know something I can figure things out slowly. Love your story and thanks for putting the hope out to people

[@maom4969]

Your story brought so much tears and grace to my life. I'm still suffering symptoms of TBI with loss of taste and smell and a fractured skull. I repeatedly have deep regrets ever being where I was and who I was with when I got injured and have struggles missing the person I was before the injury, until today. Your story has allowed me to feel less alone, understood and seen. Thank you for sharing this story

[@joeysmith8057]

OH my God your right you have given me a new look on life I also live with a brain injury almost two years ago I was run over by a truck and I finally see the light thank you for opening my eyes

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Joey! It fills my heart knowing this landed for you and made a difference. We are in this together! You are clearly a warrior and inspiration to many. Keep shining your light!

[@joeysmith8057]

@@natalieforstbauer61 I never expected you to write me back it made my day I am having a hard time getting my parents to understand that I am a totally different person and I am exhausted and utterly defeated and my mom has my son because I can't raise him by myself he is turning 3 this Saturday I miss him so much

[@joeysmith8057]

@@natalieforstbauer61 I am so living ur words I have been single for a year or two and I'm being shown attention by a 29 year old woman who is a single parent for two that was in a bad marriage and she wants to change my heart

[@natalieforstbauer61]

@@joeysmith8057 That is a tough one. I can not imagine how much you miss him! I am grateful you have parents who are able to help you and be there for your son. Many of us don't have that. Just keep showing up and being the best you you can possibly be. Be gently and loving towards yourself and others. Your parents are likely hurting too. They might miss the old you...and it can take time for all if you to get to know the new you.

[@joeysmith8057]

@@natalieforstbauer61 I hate to say it but they don't understand what I'm going through and they won't open their eyes up to see that I'm different than I used to be

[@mountainskyenglish4486]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! Your spirit is truly touching.

[@drguenette]

Fabulous job, Natalie! So blessed to see you on stage like that. Loved it. Hugs, C.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Christian! Thank you for taking the time to watch it and for the kind feedback. Appreciate you.

[@joejones9077]

This is a great, most accurate description I went through for 11 years. After I up, and everyone said I won the fight.

[@saoirsegrace2105]

Your talk touched me so personally, it made me cry. THANK YOU

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

My heart is touched knowing it landed for you. KNOW you'll find your way. With love and grace, Natalie xx

[@laurimckean9629]

Thank you for so beautifully exemplifying true healing - from adversity to opportunity!

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you for watching, true healing can be a powerful place to land

[@charlesstade773]

Great talk, I am on my 6th concussion and people don’t understand because I look perfectly normal. Thank you for posting this!. Invisible injury.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Charles, it can be hard! Glad it resonated with you. Keep taking care of yourself 💚

[@TomlinDemetriusC]

Thank you for your amazing talk. I have been dealing with chronic migraines. Your talk helps me a lot. God bless you!

[@marksmadhousemetaphysicalm2938]

You capture the essence of being in the now...so many people live for yesterday or tomorrow...and miss the only thing they really have...the now...I'm an ex paramedic and ED/trauma nurse...lost my leg in an MVC...I'm now practicing outpatient psych nursing and you capture this most important of all life lessons so well...and are a person of obvious love, dignity, care, compassion, and grace...hats off from an old RN....😁 I work with clients that have ABI and I need to show them your video here...

[@audracoton9222]

This hit home for me in such a profound way. Thank you! ❤️🙏🏻

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

Audra! I am happy it hit home and made a difference for you! Thank you for sharing it far and wide, I deeply appreciate it and you!

[@Winner1-c2u]

I am a level one trauma nurse of many years that worked at leading facilities. I was going to be a flight nurse. I give this background to let you know I am familiar with trauma. I am no longer a trauma nurse which was my passion, secondary to consenting to this procedure I was told was safe and effective. I am addressing those in rehabilitation medicine. I am asking for help in addressing these brain injury outcomes, now proved around devices in the California courts. The issue is electroshock or ECT. We have sustained repeated brain injuries at the hands of trusted providers. We are now sustaining further damages from providers, in trying to find help, and this is where I turn to your profession. Since providers do not want to implicate other providers nor facilities, never mind their risk their medical career if they were to expose this, we as victims of this are greatly suffering. I do not like to use the word victim, but here it applies. I am diligent with my own care in trying to recover from this and am far from silent when I cannot access needed resources. I am lucky in this way to be outspoken and to have a background that is well aware of testing needed and what has transpired around this. I am met with the same as my peers often in spite of this. We are TBI survivors just as any other survivor, only our mechanism of injury being electrical was delivered by physicians hands. We struggle daily to maintain our lives after not just one head injury, but multiples. We are told we have not been harmed. We are gas lighted when our reality is already skewed by traumatic brain injury. We ask for help, but doctors ignore and minimize us. We cannot access testing nor services, because reason for same would have to be acknowledged, and better to ignore than have your name as a provider in the notes exposing this battery at best. My peers are killing themselves because we are discounted in our suffering and actually in many instances treated with overt contempt when trying to find help from doctors and staff. Below is an outcome that is mine. I have been now identified with damages to my frontal lobes, cerebellum, and temporal lobes by a TBI specialist secondary to electroshock. It is is the medical records. I ask you in rehabilitation medicine to have these conversations with others so we can address this harm and get help to those that desperately need it. Expose this and shine a light as the public is at great risk. You are familiar with our struggles. We are just like any other TBI patient that needs your help and recognition please. There is a test called the VNG that is used to identify concussions and other brain injuries. It is the in office test similar to the on field test the NFL players now get called the I-PASS. Below are damages recorded in notes by TBI specialist to outcomes of electroshock. Perhaps this test may be used to identify TBI in ECT patients, as it is used for TBI in the NFL. These below findings around ECT are resulting from VNG testing. Patients are also showing changes on MRI, EEG, neuro/cog testing, and SPECT. 3. Mild L ptosis 4. R hypertropia worse in L lateral gaze 5. L exophoria 6. L upper and R lower facial paresis 7. L roll had tilt 8. Olfactory recognition impaired bilateral 9. VA ration horizontal square wave jerks R:2:1 L: down-beat nystagmus 2:1 10. Saccade testing reveals latencies increased all planes except U/L 11. Marked cervical substitutions with pursuits in all planes with intrusive saccades worsening in L prusuites 12. Pursuits downward reveal intorsional glissades 13. Gait testing reveals mild decrease inR arm swing: with dual tasking, gait becomes slightly wide-based and arm swing slightly decreases. 14. Finger-nose past pointing R>L 15. Somatic pinwheel perception diminished L L5 16. Vestibular head impulse testing: Moderately decreased in LARP plane 17. Saccadometry: Prosaccade 20 degree : intrusive saccades to the R 18. Anti saccade 10 degree: 79 percent directional error rate 19. Nystagmus: High frequency right beat and down beat nystagmus 20. Central gaze: Head movement, L pstosis and nystagmnus 21. Horizontal gaze L 24 degree Notable pitch plane head movement 22. Horizontal gaze R 24 degree: Increased fatigue, decreased stability 23. Upward gaze 14 degree: Notable pitch plane head movement 24. Downward gaze 14 degree: Notable pitch polane head movement. 25. Horizontal optokinetics 25 dps: L optokinetics provoked dysconjugate gaze. Reflex failed with R otokinetics 26. Horizontal optokinetics with volitional targeting: Worsens 27. Vertical pursuits 10 degrees: Intrusive saccades with downward pursuits 28. Random vertical saccades: Upward intrusive saccades, cannot maintain downward gaze 29. Vertical optokinetics 25 dps: Reflex failed. 30. Vertical optokinetics with volitional targeting: Worsens 31. Repeated random horizontal saccades; Latencies increased significantly bilaterally Please see ectjustice now owned by law firms participating in national product liability suit. My gratitude for any exposure you can bring to this issue.

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

Deborah, my heart is with you. It sounds like your journey has been tough and had many challenges.Thank you for boldly stepping forward to be a voice for many who can not speak, and don't have the capacity to express their experiences. I see you and am standing with you as you share your story, gather momentum and support and raise awareness.

[@tnijoo5109]

How could they not have someone take care of her kids?! This is insane.

[@brycebell95]

4 brain bleeds after jumping from the train I was driving as it lost all of its brakes. Learning about how to attack my future and grateful to come across this video. At 26 it’s scary to think about life going forward but Im learning from resources just like this. Thankyou for sharing your story.

[@QueenCuddlePuff]

I too suffer with a brain injury and memory loss and listening to you really helped alot. I was also starting to think about something else as i watched and I noticed that we thought the same thing but what i was thinking about was totally different from what you were talking about. As you spoke "how is that even possible", i thought it at the same time....but yes about something entirely different and that's when i realized that things really are meant to happen for a reason. I forgot what i was thinking about but i just thought is was so cool we said the same thing.

[@sarahking3488]

You are a Rockstar. Don't ever change.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Sarah Bartz you are the sweetest ever! Keep shining your light!

[@sarahking3488]

@@natalieforstbauer61 My husband is a tbi survivor. I keep telling him he needs to write a book. He said after watching your video he can't write a book because you said it all❤

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Sarah Bartz that touches my heart deeply. I would LOVE to hear your husbands story. If he wants to write a book tell him to reach out. Or if the two of you want to hop on a Zoom call, I’d love to connect. We need to share our stories and experiences ❤️🙏🏼❤️ I’m a published author and currently working on my memoirs about living with and healing from the TBI - if there is ever any way I can support him or you, I am here. Big love!

[@sarahking3488]

@@natalieforstbauer61 I will have him reach out to you. Do you have a website or email?

[@SarahHope883]

Thank you so much for this. I got long covid 2 yrs 6 months ago and for most of my first 2 years it has been exactly as you’ve described. You could have been talking about me- except I haven’t written a book and don’t have a baby. I don’t know if this is temporary or life long, but your message of self love, grace and compassion is good to hear. Thank you

[@debblackmore7460]

I have hypoxia brain injury I died 26minutes spent weeks months in coma rehab hospital learning talk walk again doctors were switching machine off I wroke up lol I except mine who I I'm now same but different still me just forget sometimes I tell myself if I don't remember its not worth remembering our brains heal every day memories back thanks for sharing we cant change things after keep going keep positive keep strong wishing you all the best in life x

[@nosheenkhan8075]

Hi

[@brittaninunley3713]

Thank you for your words! I felt them in my heart.

[@inthemystery8297]

Beautiful……yes tears. Hit from behind by a chemical carrying semi at 75 mph…..concession at 74. Two years later I am still working toward feeling okay where I am. Thank you.

[@richardottum1]

3 years post tbi was my breaking point of frustration point where getting better was the only option

[@HannahMcow]

How are you doing now, if I can ask?

[@venessarrc6695]

Blessing to you an yours from me an mines. Thank you for sharing your story. I will be making a year this Febuary 5 2020 an I came across this video at the right time. As our minds can run around like ___. We are not alone... Bless us all 🐞

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

My heart is full that it made a differenced for you! Wishing you health and healing. With love and appreciation

[@ashleyhunter2156]

[@MasonOfLife]

To heal the brain we need good nutrition, hydration, good blood flow/oxygen to the brain (aerobic exercise) and mental stimulation therapy, reading, problem solving, memory exercises, imagination use, learning new things (I.e. how to play an instrument, a new language, etc...something new) The combination of the heavy increase of healthy blood flow to the brain, supplying our brain with oxygen, hydration and nutrients...plus the stimulation of everything stated above (reading, problem solving, learning new things, etc) this combination is one of our best methods of healing brain damage (not a guarantee by any means but certainly an effective tool much of the time)

[@natalieforstbauer61]

All truth! Yes to all of it! Living food, exercise, movement, mindfulness, meditation, good water, mental stimulation, love, learning, reading, engaging...and so many more tools are available to us to heal 🙏🏼 Thank you for sharing!

[@Dynamicdiscdesigns]

Beautifully inspirational. Thank you.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@Pianda]

Guys, check acupuncture and ear-acupuncture. Look it up "TBI (ear)-acupuncture" -- There is also: - new japanese acupuncture - Chinese skell acupuncture -- Good luck!

[@ginap6926]

It will be 2 years for me, in September 2021. I will never be the same person ever again.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

I hear you...it can feel like such a big loss. I am standing with you as you discover the new you. With love, Natalie

[@ginap6926]

@@natalieforstbauer61 Thank you! I feel so alone.

[@teeganmcpherson8690]

i just hit a year. i feel that smh, i miss my old self

[@tonyscott2158]

Thank you so much I really needed this today!

[@saoirsegrace2105]

Wow. Thanks for the great talk glad to know I'm not alone. I want be brain back to what it used to be. I have aphasia too, everything you said EXACTLY

[@jovoorheescollinsmphbsnbch6245]

I had a car wreck Dec 27th. 3cm brain bleed, tore my carotid artery open, fractured my lumbar, left hip, left leg at the knee. It's been 9 months and I am still recovering. I can't walk right. I'm in constant pain. Finally just the day before yesterday I was able to have a neurologist consult. And he actually listened to me and treated me like a real person. He's ordering tests that should have been done 8 months ago. I have many of the symptoms this lady describes. Before the accident I also published a book, I'm a public health researcher with peer reviewed published research. And a musician playing violin and viola. And now, I have aphasia, and I do stuff like leaving my phone in the fridge, forgetting what I'm saying in the middle of the sentence. I can't do math now, even though I have training in masters level biostatistics. Maps look foreign to me. My personality is different. Now, most people wouldn't even be able to tell I have issues. But my family sees it. I certainly feel it and know it. My husband and children get frustrated. They don't understand. Only someone who has been through it can understand. I agree with the statement that healing from this is the definition of slow motion. I have been a mover and shaker, getting the impossible done. And now I can't hardly move and when I can move I forget why I'm doing what I'm doing. I'm working on trying to stop beating myself up and trying to remember who I was before, embracing what I am now.

[@FreeSpiritPressNews]

This was sent to me back in February of 23’ after being diagnosed with a TBI then changed to Brain Injury. The first time I was not able to watch/listen to this message. Was it denial or anger? Whatever it was for some reason I saved it. Still so unsure of what lays ahead but can’t look back at the person I once was

[@JohnSmith-tw5fl]

I have had a brain injury for 40 years. One of the interesting issues that I have and there are many. Is that a lot of times, food that supposes to go in the refrigerator ends up in my kitchen cabinets. I think that when I take it out of the fridge, I put it in the cupboards.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

John! I totally relate! There have been many times I have found missing groceries… Or groceries that I never even knew I had in random closets in the house! It used to be super frustrating. Now I find it rather funny...and with a tender heart I smile, remove the groceries from the closet and do my best to put them away...or throw them in the compost if they went bad. ...When I can’t find my cell phone, sometimes I find it in the fridge. And at the same time I feel more resourceful and like I am healing more and more every day as I learn to love the me that I am. Wishing you the very best!

[@RaneBane]

Crossing the street I have to talk myself through what the walk sign means so I can assure myself it's safe to go. That is one of the weirdest things for me is not trusting my judgement anymore.

[@natalieforstbauer4105]

I hear you! I still do this, just to make sure. I make way less errors now.

[@RaneBane]

@@natalieforstbauer4105 I noticed it first when I still drove. I was first in line at a red and hit the gas out of nowhere. In my mind it was a 4way stop. Frogger on a 4 lane intersection lol.

[@brendavasquez1720]

Thank you for sharing I pray you and your family are well

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thank you, love and blessings to you too!

[@MultiSignlanguage]

I need to watch this again and again. 💕

[@cakerus111]

on 3 june 2023 my brother went unconscious His eyes rolled back ...and doctors told us that he has a heart attack and as a result have hypoxic brain injuury... uptill now there is no complete treatment for this thing.. Its been a month now initially he can only open his eyes with limited look around movement.. now He can move his lips and tongue a little.. And he also started to yawn.. and few times ..very few times..move his elbow,feet finger and head a little. When something is put in his mouth he try to chew it Its been almost three weeks he is breathing on his own initially was put on a ventilator doctors says from now it all depends on patient's will power to secure complete recovery.. He is having food through NG tube He also have tracheostomy tube in the neck Also mri scans have shown global or severe hypoxic brain injuury He is only 33 He was a healthy person before. It seems like he can listen when we ask him to blink his eyes he blink his eyes

[@debblackmore7460]

Proud of you it's hard life but we are survivors with got this hope doing alot better now takecare x

[@affluentnation4589]

I had a brain injury due to a accident in 2018 I STILL SUFFER FROM SYMPTOMS SHE,s talking about 😭

[@hotbxdkitty969]

still relearning how to read and write, yesterday was one year after my most recent one, and the only one I recieved treatment for. I have made a lot of progress in some things, but others are permanant. we can choose to get bitter or get better. keep moving forward, friends.

[@edwardcordero939]

Hi, what are you doing to relearn how to read and write? I am just trying to get some ideas for myself. I too am struggling to read, write and especially speech. I was diagnosed with mild aphasia. Thanks.

[@richardottum1]

multitasking is the mother of F-,,ups

[@RoadRunnergarage8570]

I NEED THIS!!

[@graemegeorgeharrison2468]

I don’t know who I am, I feel like somebody has poured warm wet cement into my brain and my eyes are burning with ringing in my ears, everyday is like my first one it’s a nightmare

[@debblackmore7460]

Well done natalie keep going doing amazing things stay strong stay positive stay safe everyone stay strong stay positive stay safe sending luck hugs prayers most of all love from headway Nottingham UK takecare its a recovery massive discovery never ever give up on yourself many will never yourselves keep going doing amazing things amazing x

[@psychedlicsouljam1995]

I'm sick of knowing what to say but the words don't come out the right

[@mswriter3612]

LOVE THIS

[@koshikinigam2262]

Thankyou so much, this hit me so hard, I'm still healing from TBI, I've to learn words and language again, I was doctor I've no idea will I be able to treat patients again or not

[@richardottum1]

how many decades does it take to regain a healthy circadian rhythm?

[@natalieforstbauer61]

I think that’s different for everyone 🙏🏼 Do things that relax you, make you feel rested, help you feel grounded, centered and safe. Breathing, meditation and being outside can all be helpful. Wishing you peace, compassion and grace 🙏🏼♥️

[@harmenvanandel6567]

Nice 1.

[@natalieforstbauer61]

Thanks!

[@withasideofdoodles-326]

I got a TBI after a car accident in 1997. One year after my 18th birthday.

[@MilesCobbett]

Have you seen all the Bart Foundation videos on youtube about possible healing methods for brain injuries?

[@cookstore123]

Good JOB! I have a Brain Injury T.B.I. which I received as a freshman ( 14 yrs old ) in High School my profile picture is the Giant Mural they painted of me! @ Madonna Rehab Hospital in Lincoln Nebraska! I am now living in a group home in Austin Texas!

[@RoadRunnergarage8570]

TBI... The invisible disability...

[@shayleightsosie7314]

The only one who can heal is Jesus. Coming towards the end, she discusses things like grace, love, compassion, gentleness, etc. Those are all of the things Jesus is. Praise the Lord.

[@AquillaWbes]

blood in stool from the brain?

[@kelliegillespie8531]

Where can I write to MS. Forrester? Please. Even her publishers address? I would love to get her book!!! What a beautiful soul. Thank you MS. Forrester for speaking aloud about TBI. My son sustained a TBI in Aug 5th 2021. May the universe bless you. Love is all knowing.

[@TheKatiness]

Look in the description. The title of her book is there

[@kiraridegen]

My brain injury. Brain broken